So, Can You Put Tape Over LED Lights? There has been substantial growth in the use of LED lights during the last few decades. There is a lot of misunderstanding regarding whether you may cover LED lights with tape. You might feel the need to tape your LED at times, and doing so could have several advantages. For instance, doing so may allow holding some led lights in certain places.
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Additionally, even if an LED does not come with a built-in brightness reduction capability, you may still do so by covering it with tape. But People don’t appear to be sure whether it will harm the light or lead to any other issues. In case you have such confusion, We will dispel the uncertainty and provide you with the answer to whether can you put tape over LED Lights or not once and for all in this article.
Can You Put Tape Over LED Lights: Is It Safe to Put Tape Over LED Lights?
To determine whether it is safe to put tape over LED lights or not, first, you need to pay special attention to what type of LED lights you are putting tape over and what type of tape you are using. In general, yes, it is safe to put tape over LED lights. But you have to make sure you don’t put tape over the chip. Otherwise, it will block the regular airflow, overheat the LED chip, reduce the light output, and reduce lifespan by putting tape over a bulb.
The warranty may also be nullified while doing so. If you want less light, invest in a dimmer or lower-wattage LED. Moreover, if you put tape over the LED, you may damage the light while pulling it off. So it is better to stay safe than sorry and drop the idea of using tape over LED. Instead, use double-sided mount tapes.
Type of Tape You Can Use Over LED Lights
In case if you ever need to put tape over LED lights, you might want to choose one of these tapes-
1. Double-Sided Tape
This is the best type of tape to be used if you want to hold your strip LED or small led lights in one place. The suppliers may provide these tapes along with the lights. But if you don’t get any, we recommend you purchase mounting tape with a double-sided VHB (very high bond) rating of 2 lbs per square inch or greater. If you plan to put outdoor LED strip lights, make sure to verify that your tape is waterproof.
Waterproof Mounting Foam Tape, 35ft Length, 0.4in Width, Strong Adhesive Tape for LED Strip Lights.
2. Scotch Tape
If you want to reduce the brightness of your LED light when they have no brightness reduction feature, you may use scotch tape and apply some colors/ nail polish over it. But make sure you don’t block its airflow and cover its chip. There are some drawbacks to using scotch tapes. They lose their stickiness soon and leave marks when they fall or are removed.
3. Electrical Tape
If you want to fix a broken section or tighten a loose end, you can cover LED strip lights using electrical tape. They are also used to reduce the luminosity of the LED. However, it is not a good idea to secure strip lights alone using electrical tape. Besides, they are an eyesore.
Premium Black Waterproof Tape, Flame Retardant Indoor Outdoor High-Temperature Resistance Electric Tape.
4. Duct Tape
It is safe to use duct tape on LED lights since no fire starts as a result of the duct tape. To prevent any additional fire hazards, it is important to place a fuse in front of the LEDs.
Outdoor and indoor use with strong adhesion and weatherproof backing.
Tips on How to Put Tape Over LED Lights
By now you already know whether can you put tape over LED Lights or not. Here are some tips for you in case you decide to do so.
1. Clean: Be sure to clean the area well before applying the tape. If the area where you stick the tape is dusty, the longevity of your tape shortens.
2. Stickiness: Use strong adhesive tape to put on your LED light. It will hold your light for a long time.
3. Moist: Before applying the tape, make sure the surface is completely dry. Otherwise, the stickiness will reduce in no time.
4. Hidden: Some tapes, especially electric tape can reduce the beauty of your LED light. So make sure you stick in a spot, where it is not visible.
5. Multiple Pieces: Use more than one piece of tape to stick your LED lights. If you use only one piece, it may fall off quicker than expected.
6. Removing: Use caution when removing the tape. Otherwise, it may leave marks on your surface. Just remove them as slowly as you can.
Advantages of Taping Over LED Lights
Taping your LED lights may benefit you in the following ways-
- Tapes are available in every stationary shop/online, You can never run out of tapes in your locality.
- Using tapes lets you change the location of your LED every once in a while, unlike glues.
- Tapes allow you to reduce the LED’s brightness even if they don’t have such features.
- They are safe to use as long as you don’t tape the chip of the LED.
Disadvantages of Taping Over LED Lights
Before taping your LED lights, please be concerned about the following disadvantages of using tape-
- They are not permanent solutions, Stickiness will reduce over time.
- They leave marks when they are removed.
- They can overheat the chip and cause a fire if you accidentally put tape over the chip.
- They look awful and spoil the natural beauty of your LED lights.
Better Alternative of Tape
If you are not using double-sided mount tapes, We suggest you use the following alternatives of tape-
Zip Ties
If you’re searching for something simple to install and take off, zip ties are a fantastic choice. Simply insert the zip tie through the LED light’s hole and pull it tight.
Multi-Purpose Self-Locking Nylon Cable Ties
400 Pack Black Zip Ties Assorted Sizes 12+8+6+4 Inch.
Adhesive Clips
One of the most widely used methods for mounting LED lights is the use of adhesive clips. These clips are made to firmly grasp the light, holding it in position even on slick surfaces. A built-in support leg is another feature of many adhesive clips that helps to maintain the light straight and prevents it from sagging with time. They are very easy to install and remove. This makes them ideal for LED lights that need to be moved around often. Adhesive clips also don’t leave behind any residue, making them perfect for use on delicate surfaces.
Double-Sided Adhesive Spring Clips
Made of high-quality ABS plastic, which is lightweight, strong, and difficult to break.
Mounting Putty
Another alternative to tapes is Mounting Putty. This is also described as a moveable, versatile alternative to nails, glue, or staples. Use your hands to mold a of putty to the desired shape and then push it onto the back of your LEDs.
Gorilla Removable Mounting Putty
For hanging light objects, Gorilla Mounting Putty is preferable to conventional tapes, pushpins, and fasteners.
Cable ties
You can also use cable ties to affix your LED to an object. Use clear ties to avoid disrupting the LED’s light output, You can also find them in any local stationery shops.
Multi-Purpose Self-Locking Nylon Cable Ties
400 Pack Black Zip Ties Assorted Sizes 12+8+6+4 Inch.
Hot Glue
Hot glue doesn’t contain the same harsh chemicals as super glue, which makes it a much safer option and will not damage your LED. But special attention to the temperature of the glue.
FAQs: Can You Put Tape Over LED Lights
Can I cover an LED light to dim it?
Covering an LED light to dim it is not recommended, as it can lead to overheating and potential fire hazards. LED lights are designed to operate without a cover, and altering their design can affect their performance and safety. If you need to dim an LED light, consider using a compatible dimmer switch or installing dimmable LED bulbs instead.
Can you put duct tape over a light?
It is generally not recommended to put duct tape or any other type of tape directly over a light bulb or fixture. Covering a light bulb with tape can create a fire hazard due to the potential for overheating. It is best to use appropriate dimmable bulbs or a dimmer switch to adjust the brightness of the light.
Can you tape LED lights to the wall?
Yes, you can tape LED lights to the wall using adhesive tape specifically designed for such applications. There are many types of double-sided tapes or adhesive strips that are safe to use with LED lights and won’t damage the wall surface when removed.
Can I use masking tape for LED strip lights?
Using masking tape for LED strip lights is not recommended. Masking tape is not designed for the purpose of adhering to surfaces for an extended period, especially when subjected to heat from LED lights. It may not provide a secure hold, and the adhesive could weaken over time, causing the LED strip lights to fall or become loose. It is best to use adhesive tapes or strips specifically designed for LED lights to ensure proper and secure attachment.
Final Words: Can You Put Tape Over LED Lights
We have covered everything you needed to know in this article. Now you can decide on your own whether can you put tape over LED Lights or not by calculating the risks involved. But whatever you do, never prioritize anything over your own safety. We recommend you use only double-sided mount tapes if necessary. Pay special attention to the Light’s airflow. Or else you can overheat the chip and increase the chances of unwanted accidents.
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